embRACE (Global Majority Employees Network)
At embRACE, we are committed to building a culture where colleagues from the global majority feel respected, supported and able to be themselves. We recognise that identity, background and experiences all shape how people feel and are treated at work. embRACE exists to create space for honest conversation, to listen, and to push for better where things are not working. Whether you are looking to progress in your career or simply want to feel more connected and understood at work, embRACE is here to support you. Note: (The term Global Majority includes those people who identify as Black, African, Asian, Brown, Arab and mixed heritage, are indigenous to the global south and/or have been racialised as ‘ethnic minorities’. Globally these groups currently represent approximately 85% of the world’s population (Cambell-Stephens, 2021. P7).
Our mission
Our purpose is to create a safe, inclusive and accessible space where members can connect, speak openly and raise the issues that matter most to them. We maintain regular dialogue with our network to understand where people feel supported and where barriers still exist. When concerns are raised about recruitment, progression, racism, bullying or discrimination, we can share them directly with the Leadership Board and push for change where standards of equity, inclusion and fairness are not being met.
The role of the Steering Group
The embRACE Steering Group plays a pivotal role in advocating for the interests of under-represented groups within the organisation. It strives to promote equity by ensuring everyone has fair access to opportunities and that concerns are addressed, especially when standard procedures have not been effective. By identifying and resolving these issues, the Steering Group supports the organisation’s commitment to fairness, transparency and inclusion.
Driving cultural and systemic change
embRACE’s impact extends beyond being a support network, it actively works to challenge and address cultural and systemic inadequacies across the Council.
Through initiatives like Inclusive Recruitment, we challenge bias in how people are hired, retained and supported in their roles. But recruitment is only one part of the picture. Once in post, colleagues should have fair access to the resources and opportunities they need to progress. That’s why we also focus on how people are treated once they are here, speaking up when systems, processes or behaviours aren’t fair or inclusive. By working with HR, managers and the Leadership Board, we push for improvements that help create a more equitable workplace for all.
Connect with us
embRACE is built on the strength of its community. We welcome anyone who is passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion to join our network. Whether you’d like to become an active member, share your experiences, or simply learn more about our work, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can continue to build a more inclusive and equitable future within our organisation.
To get involved or to learn more about embRACE, please contact us at:
Chair
- Asraf Kassam – Operation Delivery Manager (Digital Services)
Co-chairs
- Manjeet Pangli – Prevent Co-ordinator (Regulatory Services)
- Sunairah Miraj – Interim Head of Service (Planning and Performance)
Steering Group members
- Grace Ibuka - Talent & Culture Officer (People & Culture)
- Geetanjali Sembi – Therapist (Children & Education)
- Junior Campbell – Approved MH Professional (Adults & Housing)
- Sandeep Dhadday – Management Information & Project Officer (Human Resources)
Words from our Sponsor – Sukriti Sen
I arrived in Coventry as the new Director of Children’s and Education Services in August 2024, and I must say that I have felt very much at home in such a multi-cultural and diverse place. It is genuinely an honour and privilege to be the sponsor for embRACE, and I am looking forward to working with you all to make Coventry a place where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, where our voices are listened to and heard, where there is equity and race is not a barrier to progress in the organisation. I hope you will all join me in driving the changes we want to see.
Sukriti’s message aligns perfectly with embRACE’s mission to empower colleagues, amplify voices, and break down barriers. We are thrilled to have a senior advocate who will champion the network’s goals and activities.
No matter your role, background, or experience, everyone has a part to play in shaping the future of embRACE. Whether you are a new member or have been with us from the start, your voice and contributions are essential in helping us create a culture where diversity is celebrated, fairness is embedded, and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.